Online betting in eSports requires a solid understanding of betting odds to make informed decisions. Whether you’re betting on League of Legends, CS:GO, or Dota 2, knowing how odds work is essential. By learning to read and calculate different odds formats, you can improve your betting strategy and increase your chances of winning.
The Role of Probability in Online Betting
Betting odds reflect the probability of an event happening, determined by sportsbooks using past data and team performances. If you can assess probability better than the bookies, online betting becomes a game of skill rather than luck.
For example, if a bookmaker offers 3-to-1 odds on a coin flip, it’s a great bet because the true probability is 50%. Similarly, the odds are unfair if a sportsbook offers only a $120 payout for a $100 winning bet on a 50% chance. The key to successful online betting is finding odds that offer better value than the actual probability of the event occurring.
Fractional Odds in eSports Betting
Fractional odds, commonly used in UK online betting markets, display potential winnings as fractions (e.g., 3/1, 5/2, or 1/4). These odds tell you how much profit you make per unit bet.
For example:
- 3/1 odds: A $10 bet returns $30 in profit ($40 total).
- 1/4 odds: A $10 bet returns $2.50 in profit ($12.50 total).
Fractional odds also indicate probability:
- 3/1 = 1 ÷ (3+1) = 0.25 (25%)
- 5/2 = 2 ÷ (5+2) = 0.285 (28.5%)
- 1/4 = 4 ÷ (1+4) = 0.80 (80%)
A higher number on the left means lower probability but higher rewards, while a higher number on the right means safer bets with smaller payouts.
Decimal Odds: The Most Popular Format
Decimal odds are widely used in online betting because they are easier to calculate. They represent the total return, including your original stake.
For example:
- 2.5 odds: A $10 bet returns $25 total ($15 profit).
- 1.75 odds: A $10 bet returns $17.50 total ($7.50 profit).
To convert decimal odds to probability, divide 100 by the decimal number:
- 2.5 = 100 ÷ 2.5 = 40% probability
- 1.75 = 100 ÷ 1.75 = 57.14% probability
Decimal odds make online betting calculations straightforward, making them the preferred choice for most eSports betting sites.
Moneyline Odds in eSports Online Betting
Moneyline odds (or American odds) are most commonly used in the US. They express the amount needed to bet to win $100 (negative odds) or the profit from a $100 bet (positive odds).
For example:
- -150 odds: You need to bet $150 to win $100.
- +200 odds: A $100 bet wins $200.
To convert moneyline odds to decimal:
- Positive odds: (Moneyline ÷ 100) + 1 = Decimal odds.
- +140: (140 ÷ 100) + 1 = 2.4
- Negative odds: (100 ÷ Moneyline) + 1 = Decimal odds.
- -110: (100 ÷ 110) + 1 = 1.91
Which Odds Format Is Best for Online Betting?
- Fractional odds are traditional and useful for experienced bettors.
- Decimal odds are easier to read and calculate.
- Moneyline odds are common in US betting markets but can be more complicated.
Understanding these formats will improve your online betting experience, helping you make smarter wagers in eSports events.
Conclusion
Mastering eSports betting odds is essential for success in online betting. Whether you prefer fractional, decimal, or moneyline odds, knowing how to calculate probability and potential payouts gives you an edge. With this knowledge, you can make informed bets and increase your chances of winning in eSports betting.
